Six people, including tourists, were injured in a devastating incident in Herald Square on Christmas Day when a yellow cab driver lost control and careened onto the crowded sidewalk. The chaotic scene unfolded on 34th Street and 6th Avenue, right by Macy’s department store, around 4:03 p.m. on Dec. 25.
The 58-year-old taxi driver, traveling westbound on 34th Street, abruptly steered towards the curb, veered onto the sidewalk, and hit at least six pedestrians, as confirmed by law enforcement sources. The victims, who suffered severe injuries, were promptly rushed to local hospitals and are currently in stable condition, according to authorities.
Witnesses, like Ryan Tucker, a 45-year-old tourist from Oregon, recounted the harrowing experience. Tucker was in New York City with his family for a holiday vacation when the yellow cab driver plowed onto the sidewalk and struck his wife. Despite the traumatic event, Tucker displayed immense bravery by helping a young boy who was also injured in the crash. The boy, hailing from Australia, suffered a mangled leg, but Tucker’s quick actions and comforting presence helped reassure the child until his father arrived.
The injured victims, including a 9-year-old boy and two women aged 41 and 49, are receiving medical care at Cornell Hospital and Bellevue Hospital. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) teams swiftly responded to the scene, providing crucial assistance to the wounded individuals. Meanwhile, the taxi driver, visibly disoriented, was initially taken into police custody before being transferred to an ambulance for further evaluation.
As investigations continue, authorities have not yet disclosed whether the driver will face charges for the tragic incident. The aftermath of this Christmas Day crash serves as a stark reminder of the unforeseen dangers that can unfold in bustling city streets, leaving innocent bystanders vulnerable to sudden accidents and life-altering injuries.